Apple seeds iOS 7 beta 4, iTunes 11.1 beta to developers

Apple released the latest beta versions of iOS 7 and iTunes for OS X to developers on Monday. This is the fourth beta version of Apple’s revamped mobile operating system destined for iOS devices later this fall. The mobile software was initially unveiled at WWDC 2013 last month and represents the biggest change to the OS since the release of the first iPhone.

iOS 7 beta 4 arrives with some aesthetic changes including a modified lock screen to simplify the process. Specifically, Apple added a directional arrow beside the “slide to unlock” text as well as a solid bar at the top to highlight the notification center. We are also told there are multiple visual refinements as well as some new icons throughout.

With iTunes, Apple added support for iTunes Radio, the company’s debut effort in the streaming music industry. There’s not much new here, however, as iTunes Radio on the desktop appears to operate just as it does on mobile with options to create your own stations or select from an array of pre-sets. There’s also a button that allows the user to buy the current song they are listening right from the “now playing” screen which Apple is betting will help them continue to control the digital music market over the long haul.

Apple usually releases at least four betas before launching a full version of software for the general public. If you recall, iOS 6 had four betas last year but many seem to believe we will see at least one more beta before a full launch is in order as this is a major overhaul compared to previous efforts.